Thinking the Game – Defensively
Goalie Mindset in Reading Shooters and Choosing Your Save
Every great goalie knows that goaltending is about far more than quick reflexes or flashy saves. It’s about mindset — the mental discipline to stay calm, read the play, and make the right decision in a fraction of a second. The best goalies in the game have learned how to study shooters, recognize their tendencies, and choose the right save for the moment…
Read MoreHow to Train for Game Pace Without an Ice Rink
The speed of the game isn’t just about skating fast; it’s about thinking fast, reacting fast, and staying physically and mentally sharp from the first puck drop to the final whistle. When players can’t train on ice every day, finding ways to simulate those demands off the rink becomes essential for maintaining game readiness and improving overall performance…
Read MoreMental Toughness in the Third Period
The third period of a hockey game is where legends are made and where games are often decided. Players who have prepared mentally as well as physically are the ones who rise above fatigue, pressure, and momentum swings. It is easy to play with energy in the first period when legs are fresh and the score is even, but…
Read MoreCoach Chic’s Hockey Podcast 67
Don’t forget to grab all you can from this awesome site, and make this coming month one to truly remember…
Read MoreStats That Coaches Should Actually Use
Hockey has always been a sport filled with numbers, and coaches at every level often look to statistics for guidance. The problem is that not all stats are created equal. Some numbers look impressive on paper but…
Read MoreThe Emotional Timeline of a Game
Understanding this emotional timeline can help players keep their focus, manage pressure, and perform at their best no matter the situation. From the moment athletes step into the locker room to the final buzzer, emotions rise and fall in waves that can either fuel success or create unnecessary mistakes if not handled properly…
Read MoreThe Coach’s Sketchbook and Drawing Plays That Stick
A simple drawing can transform a jumble of instructions into a clear visual that sticks in the minds of players. Whether you’re coaching at the youth level or working with seasoned athletes, the ability to sketch plays that players can instantly understand is one of the most valuable tools you can have…
Read MoreDeveloping Deception Through Visual Misdirection
In hockey, deception isn’t just a flashy move or a clever pass — it’s a mindset. It’s the ability to make an opponent believe one thing while preparing to do another….
Read MoreThe Geometry of Great Plays
Hockey is a sport of speed, strength, and creativity, but at its core, it is also a game of geometry. While it might not seem obvious during the chaos of a shift, the best plays are built on angles, spacing, and positioning.
Read MoreCoach Chic’s Hockey Podcast 66
Don’t forget to grab all you can from this awesome site, and make this coming month one to truly remember…
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